In the lists above we show the two courses of action which have been pursuedbyRamsbottom Heritage Societyand FORCH, working closely together, toopposethedevelopment.The details above showthe progress of the planning application and BuryCouncil’s listing ofthe site as an Asset of CommunityValue (ACV)since the beginningof 2015.At that time, and again after June 2015 so manypeople, both Hall users and the wider community, sent in their ownobjections. Without their efforts the application could havegone through. Members willknow that the Civic Hallgarden shares its border with the bowlinggreen, which is about 7yards away from the rear of the building.We stronglybelieve this application (for a3 storeyblock of flats forretirement housing) poses a serious threatto the future of the venue.Ramsbottom HeritageSocietyagree, and are also veryconcernedabout the implications for Market Place with its historic buildings.

Appeal dismissed

2016

Feb

RAMSBOTTOM’S “SECRET” GARDEN

The transformation of Ramsbottom Civic Hall’s garden and courtyard, hidden around the back of the building, is a wonderful achievement. The official opening by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Stella Smith took place on 13th May 2016. The “secret” is out and the Hall’s attractive outdoor space will now provide pleasure for many more people.

Local groups, including the Alpine Garden Society, the Hawkshaw and District Flower Club, Speakeasy (a charity offering therapeutic activity to people with aphasia), the Friends of Ramsbottom Civic Hall and also many individuals, have worked with Bury Council on the garden project and were represented at the opening event. Many of the other guests had a very pleasant surprise as they viewed for the first time the light, bright courtyard with its backdrop of well-chosen shrubs and plants. Back in the Hall’s Holcombe Room an excellent afternoon tea was being served. The catering was by Bury Venues and entertainment was kindly provided by Bury Music Service.

The five-year project to redevelop a derelict area into a fantastic extra Hall facility is already proving worthwhile in terms of interest from potential Hall users planning events such as family celebrations. We are very grateful to all those involved for their hard work and commitment.

We also take this opportunity to thank everyone, gardeners and non-gardeners alike, for their good wishes and for supporting the Civic Hall over recent years.